Satanic Spectacle or Cultural Celebration? UDF Declares War on Eurovision Funding.
In a move that some might say is as dramatic as a Eurovision final, the ultraconservative Federal Democratic Union (UDF) has launched a crusade against the funding for the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, labelling it a “satanic” event. Clearly, the UDF believes that amidst all the glitter and catchy tunes, there lurks a darker, more sinister force.
“Satanic and Occultist Contributions”
The UDF’s outrage stems from what they perceive as Eurovision’s descent into “increasingly antisemitic incidents” and “satanic and occultist contributions.” One can almost hear the gasps and see the pearls being clutched as the UDF references protests in Malmö against Israel’s participation in last year’s contest due to the Gaza conflict. This, they argue, is a sign of the high security risks Switzerland would face if it were to host the event.
Referendums on the Horizon
Not content with merely expressing their disapproval, the UDF is coordinating a signature collection to challenge the funding granted to potential host cities Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Bern/Biel. Zurich, having recently approved a CHF 20 million budget for the event, is firmly in their crosshairs. The city council approved this budget last Wednesday, with the canton following suit with an additional CHF 5 million on Monday.
Bern is also under scrutiny. Local UDF sections, alongside some members of the Swiss People’s Party (UDC) and the Green Party, are preparing referendums to contest nearly CHF 30 million earmarked for the joint Bern-Biel bid. The UDF seems determined to snuff out any chance of Switzerland hosting what they deem a “satanic” spectacle.
UDC Geneva Cheers for Eurovision
In a surprising twist, not everyone in the UDF’s usual circle of allies shares their apocalyptic vision of Eurovision. The UDC in Geneva is positively enthusiastic about the prospect, seeing it as a boon for the local economy. Lionel Dugerdil, president of UDC Geneva, expressed his delight at the potential economic benefits, contrasting sharply with the UDF’s doomsday narrative.
Zurich’s Taxpayers Revolt
Meanwhile, the German-speaking Taxpayers’ Federation has thrown its weight behind the opposition, albeit for less dramatic reasons. They argue that Zurich taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for what they describe as a “private event.” Their decision on launching a referendum will be made after a meeting this Wednesday.
Awaiting the Final Verdict
As the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation (SSR) prepares to select the host city in consultation with the European Broadcasting Union at the end of August, the potential for referendums looms large. Whether these efforts will succeed in derailing Eurovision 2025 remains to be seen. For now, the debate rages on, blending a cocktail of economic pragmatism, ultraconservative moral panic, and a touch of theatrical drama worthy of Eurovision itself.
Source: RTS
Intriguing!